Eggplant

is a cold-sensitive vegetable that requires a long warm season for best yields. The culture of eggplant is similar to that of bell pepper, with transplants being set in the garden after all danger of frost is past. Eggplants are slightly larger plants than peppers and are spaced slightly farther apart. Eggplant requires careful attention for a good harvest. Small-fruited, exotic-colored and ornamental varieties can be grown in containers and used for decorations.


Recommended Varieties
Large Oval Fruit

Dusky (60 days to harvest, good size, early production)

Epic (64 days, tear-drop shaped)

Black Bell (68 days, round to oval, productive)

Black Magic (72 days)

Classic (76 days, elongated oval, high quality)

Black Beauty (OP-80 days)

Burpee Hybrid (80 days)

Ghostbuster (80 days; white, slightly sweeter than purple types; 6 to 7 inch oval).

Elongated Fruit

Ichiban (70 days)

Slim Jim (OP-70 days; lavender, turning purple when peanut-sized; good in pots)

Little Fingers (OP-68 days; 6 to 8 inch, long, slim fruit in clusters).

Ornamental Fruit

Easter Egg (52 days; small white, egg-sized, shaped, turning yellow at maturity; edible ornamental)


When to Plant
Eggplant is best started from transplants. Select plants in cell packs or individual containers. It is important to get the plants off to a proper start. Do not plant too early. Transplant after the soil has warmed and the danger of frost has passed. Eggplants are more susceptible than tomato plants to injury from low temperatures and do not grow until temperatures warm.


Spacing & Depth
Space plants 18 to 24 inches apart in the row, or even closer for small fruited types. Three to six plants are usually sufficient for most families unless eggplant is a favorite vegetable, eaten often. Allow 30 to 36 inches between rows or space plants 24 inches apart in all directions in raised beds.


Care
Use starter fertilizer for transplanting. Side-dress nitrogen fertilizer when the plants are half grown and again immediately after harvest of the first fruits. Given sufficient moisture and fertility, eggplant thrives in the heat of summer. The plants tolerate dry weather after they are well established but should be irrigated during extended dry periods for continued peak production.


Harvesting
Harvest the fruits when they are 6 to 8 inches long and still glossy. Use a knife or pruning shears rather than breaking or twisting the stems. Many eggplant varieties have small prickly thorns on the stem and calyx, so exercise caution or wear gloves when harvesting. Leave the large (usually green) calyx attached to the fruit.

When the fruits become dull or brown, they are too mature for culinary use and should be cut off and discarded. Overmature fruits are spongy and seedy and may be bitter. Even properly harvested fruits do not store well and should be eaten soon after they are harvested. Large, vigorous plants can yield as many as four to six fruits at the peak of the season.


Common Problems
Verticillium wilt causes yellowing, wilting and death of the plants.

Flea beetles cause tiny holes in the leaves. Damage can be severe, especially on young plants, if unchecked. These beetles can be controlled by applying an insecticide.


Questions & Answers
Q. I planted my eggplants early, but they did not grow very well.

A. They probably were planted while the soil was too cold. It is better to hold the plants (but keep them growing) until the soil warms. If necessary, repot into larger containers to maintain vigor. Mulching with black plastic film can help warm the soil,, especially in northern areas. Floating row covers can help with cool, early seasons as well as bar harmful insects from succulent young plants.


Selection & Storage
Harvest eggplants when they are young. Size is not always an indication of maturity. To test, hold the eggplant in your palm and gently press it with your thumb. If the flesh presses in but bounces back, it is ready for harvesting. If the flesh is hard and does not give, the eggplant is immature and too young to harvest. If the thumb indentation remains, the eggplant to over mature and may be completely brown inside and bitter with large tough seeds.

There is long-standing controversy about male and female eggplants, which is an inaccurate approach considering the fact that fruits are the product of sex and do not have it. However, it is folk wisdom worth some attention. Eggplants have a dimple at the blossom end. The dimple can be very round or oval in shape. The round ones seem to have more seeds and tend to be less meaty, so select the oval dimpled eggplant.

Eggplants bruise easily so harvest gently. Always cut the eggplant with the cap and some of the stem attached. Eggplants do not like cool temperatures so they do not store well. Harvest and use them immediately for best flavor. If you must store them, wrap them in plastic or use plastics and store for 1 to 2 days in the refrigerator. Be careful as it will soon develop soft brown spots and become bitter. Use them while the stem and cap are still greenish and rather fresh-looking.

The waters are clean

The waters are clean, the sea life is abundant and temperatures are ideal, nothing can compare with the thrill that scuba diving offers. Opportunity to explore the mysteries of the sea attracts many travelers to visit some of the most accessible and picturesque coastline.

In this article we will present the places where the water is warm (25 degrees Celsius and above) and where the main spotlight are our coral reefs and marine flora and fauna. We start with the Red Sea. Most experienced divers will agree with us that the Red Sea is the best place to see the abundance of underwater life. Perfect vision, which is here allowed to see the richness, diversity, and greater range of colors of marine flora and fauna, which in turn ensures you unforgettable moments. Red Sea offers a first class cruise ship which cross the region and calling for great places for studying the marine world. The best period for this is between June and October. One of the most popular dive sites are Egypt (Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada (Dahab and Safaga). It Israel (Eilat), Jordan (Akuba), Sudan (difficult to access, but very clean and beautiful place).

Red Sea is one of the most exciting and busiest places in the world and Ras Mohammed National Park in particular offers seats for all levels of diving skill. Usual deep reefs and strong currents made the study a real challenge, but once you get used to these things, diving in the Red Sea becomes addictive.
Notable tracks offers many sharks and rays meru fish; In a Notable tracks Yolanda wreck; city has more of anemone and anemone fish smaller than you've seen even Discovery, Ras Zatar offer great opportunities for pictures and examining the caves.

Become increasingly popular for this purpose and northern Ethiopia (Eritrea), where divers have discovered a pristine coral reefs and the life there was destroyed years ago when there was a local war and famine.

Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique
Four secluded island a short distance away from the coast of Mozambique expected arrival. In addition to the reefs and clear waters that enthusiasts expect, the National Marine Park also offers a unique sea diving and exploration of the wreck.
Diving is often done in open waters, with views of the islands. The best time is June, July and August when the heat is bearable. If you are interested to visit the archipelago Barazuto, be sure to check guidance from the Foreign Ministry, since Mozambique is still suffering from unrest after a long civil war.

Maldives are the next place at which the stop. Located in the Indian Ocean northwest of Sri Lanka, this archipelago of hundreds of islands is also one of the best dive sites in the world. Crystalline water and abundant flora and fauna, making the Maldives one of the most visited places by people practicing the sport. From the capital Male, divers can then go to that island they choose. Diving can be done year round.

Caribbean
Here the water is warm and clean and is home to a huge variety of marine organisms. The best places in the Caribbean are the Cayman Islands, the Bahamas archipelago, Saba, Bonaire, Belize (where is the second largest coral reef after Australia). Turks and Caicos Islands, the coast of Florida, Yucatan peninsula in Mexico.

Island of Ambergris Cay, Belize
You will feel like a real explorer, diving among the warm Caribbean waters of Belize. That resting place is highly undervalued and most people do not even know that Belize is in Central America south of Mexico.
But this works well for divers who can dive in peace, then lie on the beach. The main dive sites are around San Pedro, the biggest tourist section of Belize. You can swim near yuzhnoatlanticheski sharks and rays at Shark Ray, to drag up the bark of the Barrier Reef and make pictures of curious underwater marine life.

Great Cayman, Cayman Islands
Known as the King of Caribbean diving sites, and they are many, the Caymans offer all options from which divers need.
First time was pretty good during most of the year with rain, which suddenly appeared only during the summer months, second the water is warm and clean, ideal for study of Big Cayman reefs and viewing rays and angel fish, in their habitat. Moreover, visitors have access to both the well-known, and to the untouched corners. Little research will lead to operators who will be hired to take you to the most isolated points, if you really excited.

Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands
Increasingly popular tourist point, Turks and Caicos islands offer just as much fun under water as above it. The islands are located north of the island and Espanyol are considered part of the Bahamas, as the central point of the Turks and Caicos Islands is Grand Turk, a real dream for divers.
Thanks to the efforts of the Government on the protection of precious natural scenery - great works by preventing the banks of the Grand Turk, divers can swim just about untouched reefs, dunes and sea slopes.

According to biologists and researchers Indian Ocean is the richest place in the world of marine life. Here are detected each year and more new species hitherto unknown to mankind. The best places are: Indonesia (Manado, Komodo, Lombok, Flores and Alor), Borneo (Sipadan), Peninsula Malaysia (Pulau Peyar marine park, Pulau Tioman, Pulau Redang and Pulau Perentan), Thailand (Deang Hin, Hin Muang) , Burma and the Marianas Islands (Guam and Saipan). This area is under the influence of two Masons during the year: northwest and northeast, which have wet and dry weather, depending on location.

Phuket, Thailand
There reason I Phuket is known as the "Pearl of the South." Water to the shore are full of marine life and has a very large selection of opportunities for diving, from coral fields at the remains of ships and caves.

To truly experience this point turisitcheska familiar choose divers cruise type "living on board, and as the name suggests, this means hiring a boat and diving for days, even without seeing land. Exactly one such journey is most likely to make a friend docile whale sharks can travel with coats, and explore caves.

The largest coral reef in the world is located on the east coast of Australia over 2000 kilometers long. The best places for diving there are Cairns, Townsville and Heron Island. Here you can choose between dives by boat or land.

Heron Island, Queensland, Australia
This island is perhaps you stranger, but can not but have heard of the Great Barrier Reef. This is the king of dive sites, Notable tracks is the largest in the world and habitat for thousands of species - from the big white shark to many different natural treasures. Heron Island is at the heart of the reef, small and unassuming, he offers the best diving you can ever see.

Any one of these places should not be missed by fans of this sport, even those who are not so keen. If you have the good fortune to encounter any of these places should not be thinking over the ability to look at this vast and poorly studied yet the world for mankind, because surely you will stay to put it mildly impressed.

Champagne for Formula 1

Champagne for Formula 1


Champagne is always a symbol of luxury and parties, and while there is a reason for this, the best brands in the world always has something to offer for fans of both. By GH Mumm set forth an limited edition champagne as the F1 "Limited Edition" and it presented only in Milan.

Megaluksozno series of champagne in honor of the Grand Prix in Monza, and is part of the official series of the brand. Limited edition in honor of the Monza Grand Prix is designed for real people-rich dishes are made of gold and black velvet is required. Champagne is sold only in Italy but its price is 7289 dollars.

Cherry Tomatoes - Tips for Growing Cherry Tomatoes

Cherry Tomatoes - Tips for Growing Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes are a favorite of many gardeners, and really deserve a place in most tomato gardens. They will bear fruit when other varieties won’t and are a nice change of pace from the typical large tomato that is the typical prize most gardeners seek.

These indeterminate tomatoes will just keep growing all season long, so some type of tomato cage or other support is a necessity for growing cherry tomatoes. It needs to be one of the larger tomato cages as it is not uncommon for these plants to grow taller than 6 feet in height. You can also use a tomato stake but be aware that these can get to pretty impressive heights. If a cage isn’t the right choice for you consider a tomato trellis.

Hot Weather - Generally speaking, the smaller tomato varieties will set fruit and keep it on the vine in warmer temperatures than the larger varieties. This makes them a favorite in the warmer growing areas, as they set mature earlier, and produce later than most. For extra early tomatoes you can try planting cherry tomatoes in a hanging planter so the roots warm up more quickly, and you will see fruit earlier than the garden, But the small root system of a hanging planter will not really support a full grown cherry tomato plant, so expect it to fall behind and die early in a planter.

Fall Tomatoes - One technique used in some of the warmer areas like Texas is to grow them as a spring crop, but when they stop producing because of the temperatures climbing into the 90’s and 100’s, keep watering them and get them through the summer. When the cooler temperatures return in the fall, you have a huge tomato plant that can set literally dozens of fruit in a few weeks, and you have a fall bonanza of tomatoes. Just be prepared and have the plant securely staked or caged, as the additional weight of all that fruit can cause it to fall to the ground.

Varieties - In addition to the heirloom cherry tomato, you can find some hybrids that bring more flavor, or a wide range of colors, like Sungold, Yellow Pear, or Red Pear. One favorite that grows much as the cherry tomato is the Sweet 100, or the related Sweet One Million. These are hybrid varieties that are much the same, with their sprawling indeterminate growth pattern, and somewhat smaller fruit than an heirloom cherry tomato, but much sweeter. These are a favorite of the kids, who will often eat the as the pick them right off the vine.

Grape tomatoes are similar in size, are shaped like grapes, but some don’t care for the flavor. They are a favorite in the grocery stores because they ship well.

How to Grow cherry Tomatoes

How to Grow cherry Tomatoes

Tomatoes are the most popular vegetable for home gardeners. No other vegetable comes close to it's popularity. And, it is no wonder, as there is nothing better than a ripe tomato straight out of the garden. Better still, eat one while you are still in your garden. Many tomatoes never makes it past the garden fence.

Growing tomato plants is easy. They produce an abundance of fruit. The best tomato, is one that ripens on the vine. With a wide range of varieties to choose from, there is a tomato plant that's just right for every home gardener.

Did you know? The world record tomato is 7.76 pounds, grown in1986 by Gordan Graham, Edmond OK. What variety did he use? It was "Delicious".

While many people believe that tomato plants originated in Europe, they actually are native to Central America. Explorers who travelled to the New World, found the Aztec Indians growing them. These explorers brought tomatoes back to Europe in the 16th Century. Southern Europe readily accepted them, and they became common in Italian cuisine.

Types of Tomato Varieties:

There are hundreds out tomato varieties to choose from. The varieties of tomatoes can be found in the following groups:

Cherry Tomato-A favorite of kids and adults. These bite-sized tomatoes are easy to grow, ripen early, and are a perfect snack right in the garden. Leave a bowl of cherry tomatoes on your kitchen counter, and they disappear in a hurry. They are used in a variety of ways, including salads, vegetable trays with dip, and shish-ka-bob. After the gardening season, Cherry Tomatoes all but disappear from the marketplace, with those that remain commanding a high price.

Grape Tomato - Small and bite-sized, like it's cousin the Cherry Tomato, these tasty morsels have gone from unknown to t"the rage" in just a few years. Why? These egg-shaped fruit are sweeter and tastier. More on Grape Tomatoes.

Main Crop- These are the mainstay of home gardens. Main crop varieties mature from early to mid-season, are big, round, meaty, and prolific producers.

Plum or Roma- Often called paste tomatoes, they are small and plum or mostly cylindrical in shape, and usually have a pointed bottom. They have far less "juice" than other varieties, and are not as sweet. Plum tomatoes are used to make paste, sauces, canning, and even ketchup.

Beefsteak- Beefsteak tomatoes are the King of the tomato crop. They grow so big that one slice covers an entire sandwich! They also have a big, flavorful taste. Beefsteaks have the longest maturity dates, but are well worth waiting for.

Long Keepers- This variety is small, usually, yellowish orange in color. They can be stored in a cool, dark place for several months. How long you ask? My neighbor showed me his leftovers in June from the prior fall. As he discarded his remaining supply, he culled a few good ones for his evening meal!

Much more on Varieties of Tomatoes

Thought for the Day If life deals you lemons, make lemonade. If it deals you tomatoes, make Bloody Marys.

Starting Tomato Seeds:

Tomato plants are usually started indoors. Planting tomato seeds is an exciting time. It is one of the very first gardening projects of the year. After a long winter, you are itching to get your hands back into some "dirt".

Begin starting tomato seeds indoors in small containers, eight to ten weeks before the last frost date for your area. Sow tomato seeds about 1/8" inch deep, using seed starting soil.

As soon as the seedlings emerge, they need full sunlight to grow sturdy. Lack of sunlight causes the plants to grow "leggy". Use grow lights to supplement the amount of available sunlight.

Tip: To help your plants grow sturdy, place a small fan on low nearby. Or, lightly brush the tops of the plants with your hands a couple times each day.


How to Grow Tomatoes:

Growing tomatoes is easy. It's one reason for their popularity in your home garden. Just prior to planting them in your garden, "harden them off" by bringing them outside during the daytime and for increasing hours, until you are leaving them out overnight. Use of a coldframe is recommended, but not a requirement. If frost is predicted, bring them indoors.

On planting day, pour liberal amounts of water with a soluble liquid fertilizer on them. Plant them in the garden carefully. To minimize transplant shock, avoid disturbing the roots. Normal spacing is 24 " apart, in rows 30" to 36" apart.

Fertilize on a regular basis. Early applications should be high in nitrogen. As blossoming occurs, switch to fertilizers which are higher in Phosphorus and Potassium. Too much Nitrogen fertilizer results in lots of lush green leaves, and little fruit. A fertilizer specifically formulated for tomatoes, will help to maximize your crop. Try Jobes Fertilizer spikes.

Keep your tomato plant well watered. Deep watering is preferable, over more frequent, light watering. You want moisture to go deep to all the roots of the plant. Water directly to the roots. Keep water off the leaves if at all possible. Tomatoes are susceptible to plant disease that grows in wet, humid conditions.

Tip: Even if you have a garden out back, we recommend finding a place along the back of the house for just one tomato plant. This one plant will be the last to succumb to frost in the fall. The warmth of the house, and a light plastic sheet or cloth tossed over it at night, will allow you to harvest fresh tomatoes after the first frost, right when prices are rising in the grocery store.

To maximize your crop, and minimize disease and insect damage, stake or cage tomatoes. They will reward you with more tomatoes. And, they will be cleaner, as they will not be sitting on the soil.

More on staking tomatoes.

Days to Maturity:

Varying types require from 55 days to 85 days (Beefsteaks). The race is always on in my neighborhood to get the first ripe tomato of the season. Most of us also grow and await the beefsteaks. One slice from these delicious beauties more than fills a sandwich.

Cold and hot spells will affect fruit development and growth. Fruit set will not occur below 55 degrees or above 90 degrees Farenheit.

Insects and Pests:

Tomatoes can experience insect problems with cutworms and a few other garden pests. Also, if not staked or caged, snails and slugs will munch on the ripening fruit.

Did you Know? Tomato plants emit a mild toxin that discourages many small insects from bothering them.

Diseases of Tomatoes:

A number of plant problems can arise, usually in mid summer heat and humidity. Blights and fungus infections can occur in the high humidity. Early treatment with fungicides is effective. Spacing plants too close cuts down air circulation and promotes disease.

Blossom end rot can also affect the fruit. This is a round, brown, indented spot on the bottom of the tomato. It is caused by either uneven watering or a lack of calcium in the soil. More on Blossom End Rot.

Tip: Do not water at night if possible in hot and humid weather if possible. Moisture and humidity combined with high temperatures promotes plant diseases. If possible, water at the roots.


Hardiness:

Tomatoes like it hot! They will die if exposed to frost. Make sure to plant them after the last frost.

Tip#1: Cover your young seedling if frost is predicted. A simple and easy cover for small seedlings is to buy large or extra large plastic disposable cups. Place them over the seedling at dusk, and remove them in the morning. There is usually little or no wind on nights with frost, so they are not easily tipped over.

Tip#2: If you get a light frost overnight and you did not cover up your plants. Go out early before the sun rises, and spray your plants with the garden hose. This melts the ice off the plants and may save them.


Harvesting and Storing Tomatoes:

Tomatoes store well in a cool, dry location. Do not put them in the refrigerator. While they last longer in the refrigerator, they will lose their flavor and texture. Keep them out of direct sunlight.

Just before frost, pick tomatoes while the are still green or orange. Wash them thoroughly. Rinse in a light solution of 1 gallon of water and a tablespoon of bleach. This kills off bacteria that rots the fruit. Allow them to dry, then put them in a cool, dry, dark place.

To ripen tomatoes indoors, bring a couple at a time to a warm, sunny window.

Cauliflower

Cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable from the same plant family as broccoli, cabbage, kale, and others. Cauliflower head with a compact white, middle-sized six inches in diameter, which consists of undeveloped flower buds. These buds are attached to the stalk. Some flower buds are ribbed, rough, green leaves that protect them from sunlight and thus hinder the development of chlorophyll. While this process contributes to white color of most varieties of cauliflower, may be found in such light green and purple color.

Cauliflower and his predecessor, wild cabbage, kept their origin in ancient Asia Minor. Cauliflower went through many transformations and reappeared in the Mediterranean, where he became a popular vegetable in Turkey and Italy, 600 BC It accumulates and popularity in France in the mid 16th century and subsequently began to be treated in Northern Europe and British Isles. United States, France, Italy, India and China are the largest producers of cauliflower.

When buying cauliflower, it is necessary to choose a clean, creamy white, compact head, where flower buds are not separated. Cauliflower, which is blotchy or dull in color should be avoided, and that in which the small flowers appear. It is better to choose vegetables surrounded by a thick, green leaves, as it is better protected.

Storing Cauliflower

Storage of fresh cauliflower was in a paper or plastic bag in the refrigerator, where you can store up to one week. To prevent moisture in the development of color clusters, it is necessary to put cauliflower stem side down. When buying pre-cut cauliflower, it should be consumed within one or two days.

Fitohranitelni cauliflower contain substances that are smelly sulfur compounds released when heated. Smell, which is given a more severe with increasing cooking time. To reduce the odor and to maintain texture with fresh vegetables, cauliflower is necessary to prepare for a short time.

Some of these sulfur compounds can react with iron contained in the crockery and yield of cauliflower brownish color. To prevent this, you need to add a little lemon juice in water in which cauliflower is milled.

Cauliflower contains goytrogeni, natural substances in some foods that may affect the functioning of the thyroid gland. People with already existing and untreated thyroid problems should avoid consumption of cauliflower for this reason. Cooking can help disbanding of these compounds.

Cauliflower contain natural substances called purine. In some individuals who are susceptible to purine problems, excessive intake of these substances can cause health problems.

One cup of boiled cauliflower is an excellent source of vitamin C (91, 5%), folate (13, 6%) and dietary fiber (13, 4%). Cauliflower is also a good source of vitamin B5, vitamin B6, manganese and omega-3 fatty acids. 124 g cauliflower contains 28, 52 calories.


Benefits of Cauliflower

Can highlight the following health benefits that are cauliflower:

- Sulfur-containing substances in fitohranitelni Cauliflower promote liver detoxification

Cruciferous vegetables contain glyukosinolati and thiocyanates (including sulforafan and isothiocyanate). These compounds increase the ability of the liver to neutralize potentially toxic substances.

- New research suggests that cruciferous vegetables help prevent cancer. When these vegetables are cut, chewed or processing sulfur-containing compound called sinigrin comes into contact with the enzyme mirozinaza leading to the release of glucose and breakdown of certain products, including highly reactive compounds called izotiotsianati. Izotiotsianatite lead not only to the detoxification of carcinogens, but one of these compounds alilizotiotsianat also inhibits mitosis (cell division) and stimulates apoptosis (programmed cell death) in human tumor cells.

- Cauliflower optimize detoxification of cells and helps to clear. New research has found that substances in fitohranitelnite Cauliflower, operate on a much deeper level. These compounds actually signal human genes to increase production of enzymes involved in detoxification.

- Cruciferous vegetables reduce the risk of prostate cancer;

- Add to cauliflower with turmeric consumption helps improve men's health;

- Cauliflower provide protection against rheumatoid arthritis;

- Adoption of cauliflower leads to benefits for the cardiovascular system.

Mustard

A member of the mustard family of plants called Brasika and a small round edible seeds as well as tasty leaves. Its English name comes from Latin and means "burning wine". It is connected with the most popular use of mustard, namely in the form of mustard, which is obtained after processing of mustard seed. French practice for preparation of mustard results in adding unfermented juice of wine grapes crushed to spicy mustard seeds.


Initially, the turnip is considered a medical plant, but not for cooking. In the 6th century BC, Greek scientist Pythagoras used mustard as a means to treat scorpion stings. One hundred years later, Hippocrates used mustard in various medications and ointments for the treatment of toothache and many other diseases.

Prepared mustard dates back thousands of years ago during the early Romans, who used bold mustard seeds and mix them with wine to obtain a homogeneous paste.

Mustard seed was an important starting point for pilgrims on the Christian faith to illustrate something that is small and insignificant, but when planted, grow strong and powerful. Pope John XXII was so big fan of the mustard, it creates a new office in the Vatican, namely Grand moutardier Du pape (someone who makes the pope's mustard). Like in 1866, Jeremiah Colman, founder of Coleman mustard in England, was appointed a man who makes mustard of Queen Victoria.

Mustard seeds: Most markets offer a mustard seed in various forms, including whole and powdered. Mustard powder is a combination of brown and white mustard seeds mixed with turmeric or saffron to add flavor and color. There are a number of special dry mustard, chili, such as mustard powder, mustard seeds with pepper, mint or chive.

Storage of whole mustard seeds should be in airtight containers in a cool, dry place up to one year, respectively, and mustard powder - up to six months.

Mustard oil: Very juicy mustard oil is obtained by pressing of a mustard seed. It is available in Indian shops and Eastern. There is a nice golden color and very fragrant. Mustard oil should be stored in the refrigerator as easily rancid.

Prepared mustard: As with eprigotvena acid component or salt, mustard, which was bought from a store is hard to ruin. However, it will lose its flavor qualities and savor over time, even unopened. Unopened mustard can be used within one year, but it is better to refrigerate. Mustard withstand open only one month at room temperature, it is also necessary to refrigerate.

Many chain stores and most - eastern already offer green or brown mustard leaves, which can be prepared like spinach or simply eaten raw. The scent of green leaves reminiscent of prepared mustard.



Mustard not only stimulates the appetite by increasing salivation by up to eight times, but it also has hranosmilatelo, laxative, antiseptic and stimulating circulation feature.

As a digestive agent, mustard neutralizes toxins and prevents the occurrence of an upset stomach. However, excessively high intake of mustard can affect an upset stomach.

Mustard also contains sulfur, which is used to treat skin diseases.

Mustard ointments applied to the chest as an aid to clear the sinuses and alleviate the lungs.

Mustard leaves are not recommended for people with thyroid problems, since they may cause an increase in the size of the

Lavender

Lavender
Overview:
Many people appreciate lavender (Lavandula angustifolia or Lavandula officinalis) for its aromatic fragrance, used in soaps, shampoos, and sachets for scenting clothes. The name lavender comes from the Latin root lavare, which means "to wash." Lavender most likely earned this name because it was frequently used in baths to help purify the body and spirit. However, this herb is also considered a natural remedy for a range of ailments from insomnia and anxiety to depression and mood disturbances. Research has confirmed that lavender produces calming, soothing, and sedative effects.

Plant Description:
Lavender is native to the mountainous zones of the Mediterranean where it grows in sunny, stony habitats. Today, it flourishes throughout southern Europe, Australia, and the United States. Lavender is a heavily branched short shrub that grows to a height of roughly 60 centimeters. Its broad rootstock bears woody branches with erect, rod-like, leafy, green shoots. A silvery down covers the gray-green narrow leaves, which are oblong and tapered, attached directly at the base, and curled spirally.

The oil in lavender's small, blue-violet flowers gives the herb its fragrant scent. The flowers are arranged in spirals of 6 - 10 blossoms, forming interrupted spikes above the foliage.

Parts Used:
Essential oil is extracted from the fresh flowers of the lavender plant and used for medicinal purposes.

Medicinal Uses and Indications:
Human clinical studies have reported that lavender essential oil may be beneficial in a variety of conditions, including insomnia, alopecia (hair loss), anxiety, stress, postoperative pain, and as an antibacterial and antiviral agent. Lavender oil is also used together with other forms of integrative medicine, such as massage, acupuncture, and chiropractic manipulation.

Insomnia

In folklore, pillows were filled with lavender flowers to help the restless fall sleep. There is now scientific evidence to suggest that aromatherapy with lavender may slow the activity of the nervous system, improves sleep quality, promote relaxation, and lift mood in people suffering from sleep disorders. Studies also suggest that massage with essential oils, particularly lavender, may result in improved sleep quality, more stable mood, increased mental capacity, and reduced anxiety. In one recent study, participants who received massage with lavender felt less anxious and more positive than participants who received massage alone. Lavender flowers have also been approved in Germany as a tea for insomnia, restlessness, and nervous stomach irritations.

Alopecia areata

In one study of 86 people with alopecia areata (a disease of unknown cause characterized by significant hair loss, generally in patches), those who massaged their scalps with lavender and other essential oils daily for 7 months experienced significant hair re-growth compared to those who massaged their scalps without the essential oils. It is not entirely clear from this study whether lavender (or a combination of lavender and other essential oils) was responsible for the beneficial effects.

Other uses

Aromatherapists also use lavender as a tonic in inhalation therapy to treat headaches, nervous disorders, and exhaustion. Herbalists treat skin ailments, such as fungal infections (like candidiasis), wounds, eczema, and acne, with lavender oil. It is also used externally in a healing bath for circulatory disorders and as a rub for rheumatic ailments (conditions affecting the muscles and joints). One study evaluating essential oils, including lavender, for treating children with eczema concluded that the oils added no benefit to therapeutic touch from the mother; in other words massage with and without essential oils was equally effective in improving the dry, scaly skin lesion. A recent study found that the use of lavender oil may improve postoperative pain control. Fifty patients undergoing breast biopsy surgery received either oxygen supplemented with lavender oil or oxygen alone. Patients in the lavender group reported a higher satisfaction rate with pain control than patients in the control group.

Available Forms:
Commercial preparations are made from dried flowers and essential oils of the lavender plant. These preparations are available in the following forms:

Aromatherapy oil
Bath gels
Extracts
Infusions
Lotions
Soaps
Teas
Tinctures
Whole, dried flowers
How to Take It:
Pediatric

Oral use in children is not recommended.
May be used topically in diluted concentrations to treat skin infections and injuries, such as minor cuts and scrapes. DO NOT USE ON OPEN WOUNDS -- seek medical attention. A small study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2007, however, concluded that lavender and tea oils in some shampoos, soaps, and lotions may cause gynecomastia, breast development in a male, in boys.
May be used as aromatherapy for children. Use 2 - 4 drops in 2 - 3 cups of boiling water. Inhale vapors for headache, depression, or insomnia.
Adult

The following are recommended adult doses for lavender:

Internal use: Tea: 1 - 2 tsp whole herb per cup of hot water. Steep for 10 - 15 minutes and drink, 1-3 times a day.
Tincture (1:4): 20 - 40 drops, 3 times a day
Inhalation: 2 - 4 drops in 2 - 3 cups of boiling water. Inhale vapors for headache, depression, or insomnia.
Topical external application: lavender oil is one of the few oils that can be safely applied undiluted. For ease of application, add 1 - 4 drops per tablespoon of base oil (such as almond or olive oil). DO NOT USE LAVENDER OIL INTERNALLY. Also, avoid contact with the eyes or mucous membranes such as the lips and nostril.
Precautions:
The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease. Herbs, however, contain active components that can trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, herbs should be taken with care, under the supervision of a health care provider qualified in the field of botanical medicine.

Although side effects are rare, some individuals may develop an allergic reaction to lavender. Nausea, vomiting, headache, and chills have also been reported in some individuals following inhalation or absorption of lavender through the skin.

Pregnant and breast-feeding women should avoid using lavender.

Apple brandy

Apple brandy
Kid that bad apples hurt, attacked by worms or other pests are quite
What to do with them - I do not have animals, I do not know where and at what prices to buy cider vinegar - will make wine and brandy.
For more wine search technology.
Brandy
To stanae nice brandy apples must be well-creased - the better to be cooked and then pressed or broken down into a purée.
Produced ineteresna texture which razredih with water, added some sugar and now waiting to ferment and will write what was received

Portable Countertop Dishwasher with Digital Controls - EdgeStar

The EdgeStar Portable Countertop Dishwasher (model: DWP45ES) has the capacity to fit up to four standard place settings with the convenience of operating right on your countertop. This unit is designed to save more water than you would if you were to wash the dishes by hand and with no permanent installation. The EdgeStar DWP45ES also boasts more energy, uses and space than similar countertop dishwashers. At 17.1" high, the countertop dishwasher is low enough to fit under most cabinets, and the included quick connect faucet adapter makes hookup to almost any faucet simple. A five foot hose is included. In addition, the EdgeStar DWP45ES countertop portable dishwasher boasts full digital controls with delayed start, a stainless steel interior, a powerful spray arm, an included silverware basket, a rinse agent dispenser to minimize water spotting on dishes, an internal water heater with Saniwash option to heat water up to 158°F, and it accepts plates up to 18.9" in diameter!

Color: Stainless Steel
Brand: EdgeStar
Model: DWP45ES
Dimensions: 18.50" h x 22.30" w x 19.30" l, 39.00 pounds
Features
Stainless steel interior and spray arm for extended durability
Dishrack and silverware basket included
Up to 4 place setting capacity
Quick connect adapter included for most kitchen faucets
Easy-to-use mechanical controls

Haier HDT18PA Space Saver Compact Countertop Dishwasher

Fits 4 Place Settings / Electronic Touch Pad Controls / 2 Level Wash System / 3 Automatic Wash Cycles / Overfill Safety Control / Automatic Fault Alarm Detergent Dispenser Dimensions - Height 21 1/4 x Width 17 3/8 x Depth 19 1/2 inches

Haier
Model: HDT18PA
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 20.20" h x 22.50" w x 24.00" l, 42.00 pounds
Features
Compact, countertop dishwasher in enameled-steel cabinet
Holds four full placesettings plus flatware
Three wash cycles, optional drying--with beep signal
Connects to sink faucet (connector included), drains into sink
17-1/4 inches wide, 21 inches high, 19-3/4 inches deep

Perfect for a small apartment or dorm room, this compact, countertop dishwasher holds four full place settings plus flatware in a separate basket. It offers two wash cycles (normal and heavy), a rinse-and-hold option, and optional drying. A beep signals the end of both washing and drying, while upper and lower spray arms provide thorough cleaning. The 1250-watt appliance shuts off when the door is opened, an alarm sounds if a problem occurs, and another automatic feature stops operation if the water overflows. Installing the dishwasher is simple: the water hose connects to a sink faucet (connector included), and another hose drains into the sink. Clad in enameled steel, the dishwasher looks great and measures just 17-1/4 inches wide, 21 inches high, and 19-3/4 inches deep. It carries a one-year warranty against defects.

Mighty Bright XtraFlex2 Light (Silver)

Mighty Bright XtraFlex2 Light (Silver)
Our Newest Light! Two Super LED lights in one head gives you the lighting power of 6 normal LED's. Brilliant light output! You have the option of using one or two of the Super LED lights with just a simple tap to our proprietary sensor switch. The flexible neck allows you to position your lighting anywhere you want it.
Brand: Mighty Bright
Xtra battery life - up to 40 hours
Xtra page coverage
Xtra lightweight
Special Lens spreads light evenly with no hot spots
Sturdy clip on can attach to a book, shelf, cupboard, or it can stand on its own

They're not kidding!
The company that manufactures this light is called Mighty Bright, and for good reason! The lamp gives off more than enough light to read by in a pitch black room. It has two brightness settings, one with both LEDs and another with just one. The LEDs in this lamp are so bright, that only one is really needed, having two is an added bonus. I'm not using a power adatpter, I'm running off of 3 AAA batteries. LEDs use such a small amount of power, those batteries should last me a year or more. Overall I was very pleasantly surprised with the quality of this light. With such a fair price I didn't think it would really hold up, but I'm definitely going to recommend it.

AWESOME!!!!
I have purchased MANY book lights in the past, but never have I owned one that was actually bright enough to read by. I usually keep moving the light around and around and around so I can see the page . I ordered the power adapter but it hasn't arrived yet, I am using 3 AAA batteries and this is a awesome light. It has 2 lights in the head you can use both or just one, the light spreads across both pages of a paperback in either mode one light or two, I haven't tried a hard cover book yet, but I really don't think this light will have any problem at all. Very Very Bright. I definitely recommend this light .

When the lights go out, there's Mighty Bright!
Know what is as essential in my luggage as prescriptions or deodorant? My book light! A book light is essential to a reader, or at least to me.

Whenever I go overnight or longer, my book light is packed. I don't sleep at night as most people, especially in "strange" places. So I rummage, actually, no, I don't rummage, I always know where exactly where I packed my book and my light, and slip off to the bathroom, get comfy on the bathmat and read until I get sleepy. I don't need to turn on any lights because my book light points the way. In another place I can go to the living room and snuggle in a chair, clip on the light, and read away. Last time I stayed at my mother's I tip-toed into her walk-in closet, found comforters, and read away. She's used to me.

But the best reason for a book light is when the lights go out as they are wont to do during thunderstorms or ice storms. My book light and a flash light are right in the drawer next to my bed. There are two other flashlights stashed around the house. Find one, light candles, go to bed, and read. I used to fret and fume over the electricity snapping out. No more.

In case the LED lights go out, I bought two replacement bulbs. I also own three other styles of book lights, but Xtra Flex 2 LED Book Light,Silver is the best of all. It has double LED lights, but only one is necessary. I need bright light to really see to read and this product meets my demand. Plus, the graceful curve of the neck and the sophistication of the silver make this an attractive product. It also comes in lime, purple, and bold blue. Take the clip at the bottom, snap it onto the back cover of the book and several pages for stability, click on the light, once or twice for your brightness, and enter that other world.

Lighting design - За осветлението у дома

Positions of luminaires into account by the designers for the places in the premises, given their purpose. And last but not least, the design is very important to be made functional lighting and extinguishing the lamp.
Tinkerbell and Butterfly Decorative Switchplate Cover


Lighting design is a working draft stage. Comply with project equipment, which must be detailed and
razgavki to be able to provide the locations of lighting fixtures inceilings and walls. Contacts or outlets for lighting in
electrical appliances or cabinets absorber, wardrobe, etc..
Architects and lighting designers selected species and function as interior or exterior concrete decision.
Then choose the specific models of lighting companies with their technical characteristics:

quantity consumers
method of installation
power
type and characteristics of the light beam - Tinkerbell and Butterfly Decorative Switchplate Cover

In this case it is best to consult with architects and designers on the characteristics of selected models. The information is processed by elektroproektanta and submitted to the contractor in elektroproekt relevant for specific types of lighting. This project is prescribed lighting and extinguishing of the lamp.

Are there requirements for domestic lighting

Basic requirements for wet rooms where lighting is required to be waterproof.
It is recommended that lighting in children's rooms to be strong, especially over the place to learn.
Lounge, bedrooms and kitchens are subject primarily of design views.
In modern apartments is good, especially in the common room + kitchen, lighting can be designed for different groups by firing to separate segregated scenes.


Позициите на осветителните тела се съобразяват от проектантите за съответните кътове в помещенията, отчитайки тяхното предназначение. И не на последно място, при проектирането е много важно да бъде направена функционално паленето и гасенето на осветителните тела.



Осветлението се проектира на фаза Работен проект. Съобразява се с проекта за обзавеждане, който трябва да е с детайли и
разгъвки, за да може да се предвидят местата на осветителните тела по тавани и стени. Контакти или изводи за осветление в
шкафове или електрически уреди абсорбатор, гардероб и др.
Архитекти и дизайнери подбират видовете осветление според функция и конкретно интериорно или екстериорно решение.
След това избират конкретни модели на фирми за осветление със съответните им технически характеристики:

количество консуматори
начин на монтаж
мощност
вид и характеристика на светлинния сноп

В този случай най-добре е да се консултирате с архитект и дизайнер относно особеностите на избраните модели. Информацията се обработва от електропроектанта и се представя на изпълнителя в съответния електропроект за конкретни видове осветление. В този проект се указват начините на палене и гасене на осветителните тела.

Има ли изисквания за домашното осветление

Основни изисквания са към мокрите помещения, в които задължително осветителните тела трябва да са влагозащитени.
Препоръчително е в детските стаи осветлението да бъде силно, особено над мястото за учене.
Холове, спални и кухни са предмет предимно на дизайнерските виждания.
В съвременните апартаменти е добре, особено в общите хол + кухня, осветлението да бъде проектирано на различни групи, които чрез разделно палене да обособят отделни сцени.

parquet floor / Паркет

Natural or artificial
Or three-layer laminate
many options and too many answers - each to decide for themselves.
But what's nice to know??

Hello, some time ago to us we need to put your flooring parquet floor. Dither and make you argued, what to choose, such a variety of types and prices ........... While we choose to encourage a lot of companies and people lost a lot of time and will share with you what I learned to save you a little (much) time and frustration. Parquet parquet floor are basically two types: oak and beech, oak is usually about twice as expensive than beech. Beech is a soft material and has a slight reddish tinge, usually divided into 1st and 2nd grade. Some companies divide it and more. The difference is that the former is not much to it and shareniiki chvorove no. Oak is a hard material and has an amber hue. It is divided into 4 main qualities (some sold and fifth) 1 - color all the threads are in one direction and without raznotsvetie chvorcheta, 2 - mild to allow pied (sap), 3 - already appeared chvorcheta to two millimeters in diameter , 4 and 5 - all you remember what it is. Principally in the construction and geometry of the orchestra would not make a difference regardless of quality, although some producers allow it. The size of the orchestra as the bigger the more expensive. Standard sizes are about 5/35/1.8sm. If the space in which to make very large flooring with large size is suitable and appropriate for small spaces opposite is true ...

Laminate flooring parquet floor is mostly offices and public institutions

It is considerably cheaper, durable, resistant to moisture and is quick and easy installation. If necessary, can be removed and placed in another room. Maintenance is easy because you do not need to be cycles. parquet floor mimics almost all classical and exotic wood species - beech, oak, maple, fir, walnut, cherry, pear, bamboo, wenge, magnolia, acacia and others.
In laminate parquet floor quality determines the price. Parquet importers say they have very good foreign firms producing laminate, which may even displace quality parquet floors. In Bulgaria is such a massive shopping parquet, but the price of the lowest segment.
The system of gluing the boards almost everywhere. Assembly becomes known. "click" system in which the boards fastened to one another.
In our three classes are sold laminate parquet floor, depending on the workload of the facility. No producer, and all the shops is imported. Polish flooring costs between 10.30 and 16.90 lv / sq.m. The Austrian is between 12.30 and 14.30 EUR / sq.m. A luxurious Belgian cost around 40-50 EUR assembly is 2 BGN / sq.m.

Natural layer parquet parquet floor is made of several kinds of wood. The upper layer is made from high quality natural wood, with a thickness of 2.5 to 6mm.Sledvashtiya layer is made of softwood, which is placed transversely, and thus protects the orchestra of deformation (strain). Multilayer parquet parquet floor are ready Finishing layer, whether or omasleni.Lakovoto cover is clean and protects against UV rays orchestra and has very high durability. Usually coverage is finishing 5 or 7 layers of nail masloto.Estestveniya layer parquet or parquet floor is subject to a maximum of three restorations

Естествен или изкуствен
Ламиниран или трислоен
много варианти и много отговори - всеки сам решава за себе си.
Какво обаче е хубаво да знаем ?!?

Здравейте, преди известно време и на нас ни се наложи да си поставяме паркет parquet floor. Колебаехме се и направо си спорехме, какъв да изберем, такова разнообразие от видове и цени ........... Докато изберем се съветвахме с доста фирми и хора, загубихме много време и ще споделим с вас това което научихме за да ви спестим малко (МНОГО) време и нерви. Паркетите parquet floor са основно два вида: дъбов и буков, обикновенно дъбовият е около два пъти по скъп от бука. Буковият е по мек като материал и има лек червеникав отенък, обикновенно се дели на 1-во и 2-ро качество. Някои фирми го разделят и на повече. Разликата се състои в това, че първото е без много шарениики по него и няма чворове. Дъбовият е по твърд като материал и е с кехлибарен отенък. Той се дели на 4 основни качества (някои продават и пето) 1 - едноцветно всички нишки са разположени в една посока без разноцветие и чворчета, 2 - допускат се леки разноцветия (беловини), 3 - вече се появяват и чворчета до два милиметра в диаметър, 4 и 5 - всичко каквото се сетите го има. Принципно в изработката и геометрията на паркета не би трябвало да има разлика независимо от качеството, макар че някои производители го допускат. Относно размера на паркета, колкото е по голям толкова е по скъп. Стандартните размери са около 5/35/1.8см. Ако помещението в което се полага е много голямо паркет с по големи размери е по подходящ, съответно и за по малките помещения важи обратното...

Ламинираният паркет parquet floor е по-скоро за офиси и обществени заведения

Той е значително по-евтин, дълготраен, устойчив на влага и е с бърз и лесен монтаж. При необходимост може да се демонтира и да се сложи в друго помещение. Лесен е за поддръжка, защото не се налага да се цикли. parquet floor Имитира почти всички класически и екзотични видове дърво - бук, дъб, клен, ела, орех, череша, круша, бамбук, венге, магнолия, акация и др.
При ламинирания паркет parquet floor качеството определя цената. Вносителите на паркет казват, че има много добри чужди фирми, произвеждащи ламинат, който може да измести по качество дори естествения паркет. В България се пазарува масово такъв паркет, но на цени от най-ниския сегмент.
Системата на лепене на дъските вече почти никъде не се прилага. Сглобяването става по т.нар. "клик" система, при която дъските се закопчават една за друга.
У нас се продават три класа ламинат parquet floor в зависимост от натовареността на помещението. Няма производители и всичко по магазините е внос. Полският паркет струва между 10.30 и 16.90 лв./кв.м. Австрийският е между 12.30 и 14.30 лв./кв.м. По-луксозният белгийски струва около 40-50 лв. Монтажът е 2 лв./кв.м.

Естествения трислоен паркет parquet floor се изработва от няколко вида дървесина. Най-горният слой е направен от естествена висококачествена дървесина,с дебелина от 2.5 до 6мм.Следващия слой е направен от иглолистна дървесина,която е поставена напречно и по този начин предпазва паркета от деформации(измятане).Многослойните паркети parquet floor са с готов финишен слой, лакирани или омаслени.Лаковото покритие е екологично чисто ,предпазва паркета от UV лъчи и е с много висока износоустойчивост. Обикновенно финишното покритие е от 5 или 7 слоя на лака или маслото.Естествения трислоен паркет parquet floor подлежи на максимум три реставрации

Margaritaville DM1000 Frozen Concoction Maker

Margaritaville DM1000 Frozen Concoction Maker


Color: Pearl white, green
Brand: Margaritaville
Model: DM1000
Dimensions: 18.00" h x 10.00" w x 14.00" l, 16.00 pounds
Frozen concoction maker shaves ice and blends up to 32 ounces
Automatically mixes the right proportion of ice with the ingredients
Front-access controls; stable footprint; generous handle and drip-free spout
Accessories include shot glass and salt rimmer; easy-to-clean design
Measures 15-2/3 by 11 by 21 inches; 1-year warranty

Consistent, restaurant-quality frozen concoctions for a party.No more chunks or watery drinks. The Frozen Concoction Maker lets you make 36 oz. of your favorite frozen drinks that are as delicious and consistent as the ones you get in a restaurant.It's easy to use: just pour the ingredients in the glass jar and add ice in the top reservoir. Then decide how many drinks you want to make. The Frozen Concoction Maker automatically mixes the right proportion of ice with the ingredients. It actually shaves the ice, which is the key to delivering better drink consistency.The Frozen Concoction Maker lets you and your frozen creations be the life of the party.

Keep the party flowing by serving up restaurant-quality frozen concoctions with this unique, easy-to-use appliance. Far more than just an ordinary blender, the unit automatically shaves ice and blends up to 32 ounces of a favorite frosty drink, all at the touch of a button. Simply pour the ingredients into the glass jar and add ice in the top reservoir. Select how many drinks to make, and the machine automatically mixes the right proportion of ice with the ingredients. And the appliance actually shaves the ice, which is the key to delivering better drink consistency--no more chunks or watery drinks. Other highlights include simple front-access controls, a stable footprint, an easy-to-clean design, and a generous handle and drip-free spout on the glass jar for graceful serving. Accessories include a shot glass and salt rimmer for the complete Margaritaville experience. The frozen concoction maker measures 15-2/3 by 11 by 21 inches and carries a one-year warranty.


Customer Reviews
I was skeptical
I distinctly remember making fun of the Margaritaville Frozen Concoction Maker when I first saw it advertised in the Front Gate catalog. ("Who's going to buy a three hundred dollar blender on steroids?!? Hah-hah-hah...") Imagine my horror when my wife announced that she wanted one for her birthday. Looks like that "who" was going to be "me".

The vast majority of positive reviews on Amazon calmed my fears a bit and I ordered one up. As usual, Amazon delivered quickly and it was unpacked and setup in a couple minutes.

Exactly true to its claims, the thing actually makes perfect consistency margaritas and any other frozen drinks you can think of. I think I like it more than my wife. It has a "power tool" vibe to it that guys appreciate. Spinning blades and high speed motors. What could possibly go wrong?

There's a few things/tips to be aware of:

1) It's BIG. It just barely clears the front of our kitchen cabinets and is too tall to go under them. Pretty heavy to lift onto a high shelf too.

2) It does a more consistent job making a "full" pitcher than just a single drink. Having a lot of ice in the hopper works best; putting a single glass full of ice in will be too watery if you use the automatic cycle. To compensate, for a single drink I manually hold the "shave" switch on for ~4-5 seconds prior to starting the automaticmix cycle. Works great.

3) The shaved ice melts faster than cubes when it touches glass, so I've taken to icing the pitcher to keep the glass cool (or at least filling it with cold water for a few seconds) before adding the liquid ingredients. Unlike plastic pitchers on commercial drink makers, the glass (thick glass at that) can transfer a lot of heat. Popping it straight out of a hot dishwasher onto the stand will give you a mighty runny margarita.

4) Although "dishwasher safe" the lid to our pitcher turned a funny mottled brown/green color after one cycle in the wash. Not sure if it was the heat or the detergent or what, but after that it was slightly brittle and generally "weird". A call to the 800 customer service number yielded a free replacement which we just hand wash now.

All in all, it works as advertised and is a real crowd pleaser at parties. A good gizmo.

Awesome
When I saw this item for sale I just had to buy one for my husband as a college graduation gift. Margaritas are his favorite drink and he just couldn't duplicate that restaurant quality consistancy with a blender. This Margaritaville machine actually shaves the ice instead of chopping it like a blender would do. This creates that nice smooth consistancy of the drink instead of a lumpy texture.

It's very easy to operate. All you do is fill the ice chamber with ice, pour the correct amout of your drink mixture into the pitcher (it will make 1-3 servings at a time), set the machine to how many servings you would like, then turn it on. The machine automatically measure,shaves and blend the perfect amount of ice according to the amount of servings. No more watery drinks.

When my kids have friends over for pool parties they love me to make them alcohol free strawberry daiquiris or pina coladas or fruit smoothies.

One nice feature about this machine is that as the ice in the ice chamber melts, the water is channeled into a collection reservoir, that is easily removeable to dump out. The water never mixes with the drink mix.

Clean-up is simple. Whatever ice remains in the ice chamber can be left to melt and drain into the reservoir then discard it or you can have the machine shave the remaining ice into the pitcher. We put our pitcher and pitcher parts into the dishwasher for a good cleaning.

If you are a frozen drink lover, like my husband and I are you have to own one of these. It's pricey but worth it!

I also, highly recommend the canvas carrying case that can be purchased separately. It's very nicely made.

Sensio 13330 Bella Cucina 12-Piece Rocket Blender

Sensio 13330 Bella Cucina 12-Piece Rocket Blender
High power base; 2-stainless steel blades, 1-tall blending cup and 1-short blending cup, 1-party cup and 2-comfort lip rings, 2-resealable lids and 2-shaker lids, 12-total pieces, chrome finish.

12-piece high-speed mixing system chops, whips, blends, and more
Includes power base, 2 blades, 3 blending cups, 2 lip rings, and 4 lids
Durable see-through construction; results in a matter of seconds
Sleek design and attractive chrome finish; hand-wash only
Measures 5-1/3 by 4-1/2 by 11-4/7 inches; 1-year limited warranty
Color: Metallic
Brand: Sensio Bella Cucina
Model: 13330
Dimensions: 11.00" h x 7.50" w x 9.10" l, 4.10 pounds

Whether setting up house for the first time or looking to add versatility to an already busy kitchen, this 12-piece high-speed mixing system provides exceptional convenience. The set includes a power base and two stainless-steel cutting blades (one flat, one cross); two blender cups (tall and short); one party cup with two comfort lip rings; two reseal-able lids; and two shaker lids. The unit takes up about the same amount of space on the counter as a coffee mug, yet it replaces a food processor, blender, and coffee grinder. Use it to chop, mix, whip, blend, and more--perfect for making party dips and mixed drinks or food-prepping the main course and whipping up dessert. Simply add ingredients into one of the three blending cups, connect to the power base, and press down for results in a matter of seconds. Even more, blending cups feature durable see-through construction, which makes it easy to keep an eye on the mixing process and to identify contents at a glance when stored in the refrigerator. With its sleek design and attractive chrome finish, the high-speed blender measures 5-1/3 by 4-1/2 by 11-4/7 inches and carries a one-year limited warranty.

Cuisinart BFP-703CH SmartPower Duet Blender/Food Processor, Chrome

Cuisinart BFP-703CH SmartPower Duet Blender/Food Processor, Chrome

Превъзходни резултати без усилие

Enjoy a frozen drink, crush enough ice for a crowd, and prepare hors d'oeuvres for a party with the Cuisinart® SmartPower Duet™ Blender/Food Processor. Seven speeds, one just for ice crushing and one for food processing, make this Blender/Food Processor a powerful kitchen helper. The smart choice for everyday home cooks and chefs extraordinaire

Този най-модерен кухненски робот притежава някои от най-авангардните технологии. Неговата универсалност се осигурява от 10 приставки, които с лекота изпълняват над 30 функции. Освен това този кухненски робот ви предлага професионална приставка за изцеждане на сок.

Two powerful kitchen appliances have been brought together in this blender/food processor by Cuisinart. The heavy-duty motor base is up to both blending and processing tasks, and won't "walk" on the counter, even when it's crushing ice. Use the blender with its dripless pour spout to make and serve 40 ounces of frozen drinks or to purée baby foods or soups; use the processor to prep up to 3 cups of vegetables, cheeses, nuts, and meats. With one motor base, it's simple to keep the blender out on the counter and then bring out the processor attachment for special tasks.

This is an amazingly sturdy product, with tight-fitting lids, a heavy glass blender jar, and a motor that chops meat or ice with equal aplomb. Most attachments are dishwasher-safe, and the flat touch pad, which has seven settings (including ice crush and pulse), is easily wiped down with a sponge. This dual appliance comes with a booklet that explains how to use all the features and lists 48 recipes, from cranberry-orange mimosas to classic mayonnaise